Marion staff recommend limiting electronic message centers to marquees; council wants strict display rules

Sue Lynn, a principal planner, presented a proposed text amendment to Marion—s sign regulations to address a request from the Giving Tree Theater and to clarify rules for electronic message centers.

Staff outlined three options: (1) allow electronic message centers only on a specific sign-structure type (a marquee), (2) allow them by zoning district, or (3) allow them within a special overlay such as an entertainment district. Sue Lynn said staff—s preferred approach is the marquee-limited option because it narrows the scope of new electronic signage and helps preserve the historic character of Uptown.

"We are just looking for y'all's direction on a proposed option to move forward," Sue Lynn said. She showed before-and-after examples from sister-city Cedar Rapids and noted the proposal would carry existing regulatory controls—copy area, illumination limits, and message timing—into any new marquee policy.

Councilmembers asked whether displays could be restricted by hours, required to hold static (non-animated) messaging, and limited in brightness and message timing to avoid driver distraction and impacts on nearby residences. Sue Lynn said staff would propose conditions (for example, minimum seconds-per-message and illumination standards) and would ensure the ordinance preserves Uptown—s character.

Council members expressed support for the marquee-limited option and emphasized limiting animation and bright, rapidly changing graphics. Staff noted that any new marquee signage would still follow the city—s permit and approval process; individual signs would require sign-permit approval and conditions could specify whether staff or council review is required.

Staff will draft code amendments for Planning and Zoning Commission review that reflect council direction and proposed conditions for illumination and timing.